A video featuring Andrés Santiesteban Sánchez, a Cuban living in the United States, has sparked widespread debate on social media. In his message, Andrés expressed his embarrassment over the attitudes of some Cubans towards Mexicans, in a context marked by the tightening of immigration policies under the Trump administration. Andrés's statements have gone viral, garnering thousands of comments and reactions, both supportive and critical.
"Wow, what’s happening is truly sad. I feel such indignation and shame for our fellow Cubans who just can’t come to terms with the reality of the situation," Andrés began saying in his video shared on his profile @taino6144, clearly moved. "Even if you become a U.S. citizen, you will never be a gringo. And even if you have blue eyes and blonde hair, you will never be Anglo-Saxon. It’s a matter of history," he added, questioning what he perceives as a lack of memory and empathy among some Cuban immigrants.
In the video, Andrés recalls the case of a young Cuban truck driver in Colorado who faced a 120-year sentence. "Do you remember when that Cuban kid had the accident in Colorado? The first ones who joined you in the fight to never enter that state with trucks again were exactly your Mexican brothers? What indignation, and the saddest part is that many of you seem to have forgotten," he emphasized. With a visibly emotional voice, he concluded: "Mexicans, I, Andrés Santiesteban Sánchez, humbly ask you for forgiveness for the aberrations and foolishness that many of my countrymen are committing."
Andrés' message did not stop at criticism; it was also a call for unity among Latin communities. “Cuban, remember: when you have problems, you love it when your Latin American brothers help you. Today, it is they who are in a quite critical situation, and you are even taking the luxury of mocking them. What a shame, how short your memories are,” he declared.
The comments on the video have been numerous and varied. On one hand, many users expressed their support and admiration for Andrés. “My respects to you, sir,” wrote a user identified as Juan Carlos. Another person commented, “I am Cuban and I fully agree with you. Today, I am also Mexican.” Another Mexican user thanked him for the gesture, saying, “Thank you for reminding us that not everyone thinks the same way. We know there are Cubans who support.” Even a user identified as Ernesto commented, “I am a democratic Cuban and never a Republican. I love and respect my Mexican brothers.”
However, there were criticisms and nuances to Andrés' message. Some users pointed out that the issue is not limited to Mexicans and that many Latino communities are being affected by immigration measures. "This is not just against Mexicans; all Latinos are in the crosshairs," commented one user. Others lamented that Andrés' speech could lead to divisions within the Cuban community. "You can't speak for everyone. Each person has their own way of thinking," responded another. Additionally, some pointed out errors in the facts presented, such as the location of the truck driver's case, which occurred in Colorado and not in Arizona.
Among the opinions gathered, several emphasized the need for unity and reflection. One user stated, “I am Mexican, and although it hurts us that some do not support us, we know that not everyone is the same. Thank you for reminding us.” Another user commented, “A respectable Cuban supports their Latino brothers. This is the time to prove it.” However, there were also critical voices that highlighted the necessity of empathy in both directions. “We, the Mexicans, have always helped, but we also need respect and support. This should not only be a call to Cubans, but to everyone.”
The viral spread of the video occurs at a time when the immigration policies of the Trump administration have generated uncertainty and fear among immigrant communities. From the elimination of humanitarian "Parole" to massive ICE raids and deportation flights, these measures have tested the resilience and unity of Latino communities. “This is not just a matter of solidarity, but of survival. Today it's us, tomorrow it could be you,” expressed a user identified as Al Enciso.
Andrés Santiesteban Sánchez's message has sparked a necessary debate about empathy and mutual support within Latin communities. His words have elicited both admiration and rejection, but most importantly, they have prompted a deep reflection on historical memory and the meaning of solidarity in times of adversity.
Impact of Trump's New Immigration Policies on Immigrants
The recent measures taken by President Donald Trump regarding immigration have generated significant uncertainty among the Latino community in the United States. Among the most controversial decisions is the revocation of the humanitarian parole, which has led many to fear for their future, as is the case of a Cuban resident in Miami who, despite having voted for Trump, now fears the deportation of his family that arrived through this program.
The tightening of immigration policy has also led to mass raids in states like Florida, creating panic among immigrants and impacting key sectors of the economy, such as agriculture and construction. Companies have reported economic losses due to a shortage of workers, while many immigrants prefer to stay indoors out of fear of being detained. The uncertainty about the future has prompted some business owners to advocate for a migration reform that would allow for the retention of the workforce.
According to official data, more than 1.4 million immigrants in the U.S. have final deportation orders, and many countries, such as Cuba and Venezuela, have been labeled as "non-cooperative" for refusing to accept their deported citizens. This has complicated the enforcement of Trump’s measures, who has warned that there will be no exceptions and has strengthened ICE's capacity to carry out expedited expulsions.
In the midst of this climate of tension, the White House has sent a clear message to undocumented immigrants, warning that anyone without documents will face serious consequences. Deportations have extended to any part of the country, with raids even in sensitive places such as schools, hospitals, and churches. The implementation of expedited deportation has allowed migrants to be removed without the right to a prior hearing, increasing fear in vulnerable communities.
On the other hand, the impact of these policies has been evident in the daily lives of immigrants. One case that has generated debate on social media is that of a Cuban in Miami who, with a mix of humor and anguish, expressed his fear of possible deportation, reflecting the feelings of thousands of people who have arrived in the country seeking better opportunities. The viral video in which he mentions the scarcity in Cuba has sparked divided reactions, with some advising not to lose hope and others warning about the difficult situation on the island.
While the Trump administration continues its immigration control strategy, thousands of families live in fear of being separated. Some migrants have chosen to seek refuge in Mexico, such as a Cuban mother stranded in Tapachula with her three daughters following the cancellation of the CBP One application. The humanitarian crisis at Mexico's southern border has worsened, and the government of Claudia Sheinbaum has begun deporting migrants back to their countries of origin, including Cubans affected by the new restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Empathy and Solidarity Among Cuban Immigrants in the U.S.
Why does Andrés Santiesteban criticize the attitude of some Cubans towards Mexicans?
Andrés Santiesteban criticizes the lack of memory and empathy among some Cubans towards Mexicans. He points out that, despite becoming U.S. citizens, many Cubans forget their own immigration history and the support they have received from other Latin communities, such as Mexicans, during difficult times.
How have Trump's immigration policies impacted immigrants in the U.S.?
Trump's immigration policies have generated uncertainty and fear among immigrants. These measures include the elimination of humanitarian parole, massive raids, and expedited deportation, affecting Latino communities and testing their resilience and unity.
What message does Andrés Santiesteban seek to convey to the Latino communities?
Andrés Santiesteban calls for unity and solidarity among Latino communities. He emphasizes the importance of remembering that all immigrants may face critical situations and should support each other instead of fostering divisions.
What are the main criticisms of the attitudes of some Cubans in the U.S.?
The main criticisms focus on the lack of empathy and the forgetting of their own migratory history. It is noted that some Cubans have adopted discriminatory attitudes and support restrictive immigration measures, forgetting their own experience as immigrants.
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